An Éric Abidal own goal edged the Liga leaders ahead but the visitors swiftly levelled when Pedro Rodríguez rifled in Lionel Messi's assist. Pablo Hernández's strike looked like it would extend Valencia's 100% opening to the campaign until Fàbregas (77) nonchalantly struck his fourth goal in as many top-flight games.

José Mourinho made six changes – including giving a Real Madrid CF debut to Raphael Varane – from the team that lost 1-0 at Levante UD on Sunday, but the Merengues were unable to breach Real Racing Club's defence in Santander. The 0-0 draw means Madrid have failed to score in successive Liga matches for the first time since January/February 2007.

Club Atlético de Madrid are having no such trouble. The Rojiblancos followed up Sunday's 4-0 defeat of Racing with a repeat scoreline against Real Sporting de Gijón in Madrid, with Falcao adding to his weekend hat-trick with a double.

Levante made it two victories in five days with a 2-1 triumph at Rayo Vallecano, while Santi Cazorla got the only goal against visiting Athletic Club as Málaga CF won for the third straight game without conceding.

The UEFA word, the UEFA logo and all marks related to UEFA competitions, are protected by trade marks and/or copyright of UEFA. No use for commercial purposes may be made of such trade marks. Use of UEFA.com signifies your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.